Living in Aruba is surely a dream come true for all those who love abundant sunshine, white sandy beaches, beautiful nature, and various outdoor activities. Yet, is this small island the right choice for those who are considering buying their first home in the Caribbean? We offer you crucial information about „One Happy Island“ to help you find the answer to this question.

About Aruba

Aruba is a picturesque Dutch island in the Caribbean Sea. Together with the Netherlands, Curacao, and Saint Martin, it constitutes the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The island has an almost perfect climate with a lot of sunny days throughout the year. 

Despite its relatively small population of around 120,000, the island is home to the members of more than 90 different cultures. This further explains why ex-pats are always welcome regardless of where they come from. 

The cost of living 

All factors considered, the cost of living in Aruba is almost 17% higher than the US national average. The prices of housing, childcare, sport, and entertainment facilities are lower than the national average. However, transportation, groceries, and eating out are much more expensive than in many other parts of the US.

If you are planning to invest in a new property, you will need to prepare a substantial amount of money. A mere look at the residential property market proves that real estate prices are on the rise. Still, it seems the perks of living in Aruba are such that investing in a new home here is worth every dollar. 

Job opportunities

Not so long ago, exporting aloe as well as petroleum products used to be very profitable businesses. They still offer job opportunities to the residents of Aruba, but there is a big change. Currently, tourism is, without a doubt, the biggest source of income on the island. Hence, it does not surprise that a great majority of ex-pats find a job or start a business in this field too. 

Educational facilities

Islanders see education as one of the key elements in the development of their island. There are around 80 schools in Aruba, both public and private. Public schools follow the Dutch Curriculum as a rule, but several private schools offer their own programs or the education that follows an American-based curriculum.

Outdoor activities when living in Aruba

If you are a person who loves outdoor activities, living in Aruba is what you need. Start orchestrating your move immediately, bring only the basic items, and head right to the “One Happy Island” to turn your life into a genuine adventure. You will see the most beautiful white sand beaches in the world, experience breathtaking sunsets, go swimming, snorkeling, walking down the beach, or drinking refreshing drinks, and enjoying the view.

Despite the obvious lack of green and mountainous areas, Aruba still offers a lot to explore. Climb up the Hooiberg, the second-highest point on the island, or visit the most amazing bridge on the island – the Trinity Bridge. Nature lovers will enjoy spending free time in Arikok Natural Park. Thrill-seekers should not miss a chance to go swimming and snorkeling in Natural Pool, a pool surrounded with volcanic rocks. 

Living in Aruba will motivate adventurers to turn each day on the island into a unique, unforgettable experience.

Laid-back attitude to life

Living in Aruba means going through life “poco poco.” You will eventually learn how to take it easy and eliminate stress. The locals here are friendly, helpful, and outgoing people who always welcome newcomers as they have got used to the existing mix of various cultures on the island. If you are worried about making new friends after relocating here, it is high time you stopped worrying. As soon as the Four Winds SA team of professional movers transports your belongings to the new Aruba address, you will realize your fears were unfounded. 

Delicious cuisine

One Happy Island is mere heaven for foodies. Countless restaurants offer a wide range of highly different cuisines. Not only can you try traditional dishes from all over the world, but you can also have perfectly healthy meals while enjoying the view from the terraces of these restaurants.

Undoubtedly, seafood is the most popular, but you can also opt for unusual flavors of typically Arubian dishes like cornflour flatbread called pan bati or the famous beef stew called carni stoba.

Drive and enjoy

After moving to Aruba, you will definitely need a car. Even though it is a very popular destination and is visited by tourists all year round, the roads on the island are far from well-developed, and the transportation system requires large investments too. Passionate bikers will have a problem finding decent bike lanes and enjoy their hobby to the fullest. However, the landscape on the island is so diverse, with so many areas to see and explore, that every ride guarantees joy. If you embrace these circumstances with optimism, you will quickly realize that going from one end of the island to the other by car is, in fact, pure pleasure.

Choosing a place to live

Aruba is divided into six districts. These are Noord, Oranjestad, Paradera, San Nicholaas, Santa Cruz, and Savaneta. However, a great majority of residents live in Noord and Oranjested, which are the two biggest and most developed districts here. 

Noord and Oranjested are perfect for millennials, families, and retirees alike. These are lively areas near the best shops, hotels, restaurants, schools, and some of the most fascinating beaches. It can get crowded here, with so many tourists coming. Yet, these two districts offer too many perks that surely outnumber the downsides.

IMAGE CREDITS:

https://pixabay.com/photos/aruba-bird-nature-animal-wildlife-2206510/

https://pixabay.com/photos/aruba-island-the-island-of-aruba-2420366/

https://pixabay.com/photos/aruba-island-the-island-of-aruba-2420412/

https://pixabay.com/photos/aruba-hotel-beach-island-caribbean-1130880/